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RAILWAY TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM OF THE KRAKOW METROPOLITAN AREA - PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Tomasz Bajwoluk

Abstract

The aim of this article is to present the possibility of incorporating the existing railway network into the transportation service system of the Krakow Metropolitan Area. The author discusses the problems and opportunities related to adapting the existing railway network to the emerging functional and spatial structure and the options of using it to make this area more accessible. Research done by the author focuses on the current condition of the railway infrastructure in the aspect of its functional and spatial relations with the existing development. The dynamic growth of settlement in the city metropolitan area observed in recent years has created the need of an efficient transportation system. The transportation system based on the existing road network is no longer capable of ensuring comfortable travelling by private means of transport and requires complementation with more efficient public transport. The optimal means of transport is the urban railway, but its implementation involves adjusting the infrastructure to the passenger. Certain parts of the railway network have been undergoing modernisation for several years now, but the ongoing process of creating new developments does not fully make use of the potential of the neighbouring railway lines and fails to create a clear spatial structure model. One of the reasons for this is the excessively scattered distribution of development and limited access to railway lines. Using the existing railway network within the Krakow Metropolitan Area may work only if it is closely related to settlement growth. The creation of a friendly and clear infrastructure to accompany the railways is important, and it should be closely related to existing and emerging development. The location of railway stops is also of key importance, they must be easily accessible for users, with particular emphasis placed on park-and-ride facilities. The issues presented in the article demonstrate the complex character of this process. The creation of a metropolitan railway system is necessary, but it will have to be limited to the existing railway lines. Hence, if will be practically significant only in some parts of the metropolitan area. Nonetheless, the author is of the opinion that there is no alternative solution to the city?s growing transportation problems, resulting also from the intensive development of the suburbs. The modernised railway network, should become a basis for attractive public spaces integrating the surrounding functional and spatial structures.

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DOI resolver: doi.org/10.5593/sgem2019/6.2/s27.064

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